2012 Syrah “Library Reserve”, Edna Valley

We have stepped outside Santa BarbaraCounty to access some amazing fruit. The Syrah is from Slide Hill Vineyard in the cool Edna Valley AVA of southern San Luis Obispo County. The vineyard is Demeter Certified Biodynamic, a unique method of organic farming that is very exacting and produces dense, highly structured fruit. 100 percent Syrah, this is a blend of five different Syrah clones from three distinct blocks.

The fruit was harvested at a lower sugar level than some other producers, so the alcohol is balanced and under 14%. Traditional winemaking techniques were employed, including a long cool fermentation in small open-top fermenters with about 33% whole clusters to maximize the fruit.It was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, of which about 30% are new oak.This is a classic, cool climate Syrah; savory, spicy, and meaty with a noticeable edginess from the whole clusters. Yet there is elegance. It is a balanced wine with complex character and moderate alcohol meaning it will age beautifully for many years to come.Bottle: $48.00